It’s in the little moments. the touches. the embrace. the glances. the giggles. Letting your kids be kids. And letting you, the adult, just pour out love. acceptance. joy. companionship. and laughter.

It’s how their hand lands on your head. How they pick up nature and show you with delight. How they play and interact with each other. How they wiggle on in between the two of you. How each one of them has their own, unique personality; and how quickly it shines through. How they soak up your presence. And how you instinctively wrap your arm gently and lovingly around them when they are standing close.

I love this family. I love how they love. How they talk. How to interact. AND how they are fricken’ amazing and collect retro windbreakers to wear for their annual family photo shoot. We go and explore. Take the trail. Climb the trees. And just be together. Just as they always are.

Ali and Ty—you guys pull on all the heartstrings. Thank you for letting me into these sweet moments of your lil clan of six (Seven! Including Johnny Appleseed). I know I’ve said it before, but I ardently adore your family. And I absolutely can’t wait till next year.